Children and Family Programs

At Tyler, we believe in the importance of fostering meaningful connections to the natural world in fun and interactive ways. Here kids children can learn about gardening, wildlife, flowers and trees, veggies and lots more. These are specially developed, age-appropriate programs that are taught by educators who know how to engage young minds. We also offer lots of classes for the whole family creating opportunities for shared discovery and lots of great memories.

Toddlers in Nature (Ages 18-36 months)

Toddlers in Nature

Wednesdays, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Toddlers in Nature programs are for toddlers and their favorite adult. All activities are developmentally appropriate. Toddlers are all about exploring their sense of wonder and each class will include a story, theme exploration and time in nature.

February 4 – No Two Alike - Snowflakes are a great example of how everything in nature, including us, is unique. We’ll explore and observe the subtle differences in snowflakes, leaves, nests, bird feathers and other natural objects.

February 18 – Tracks in the Snow - Signs of wildlife can sometimes be easier to see in winter. Become a nature detective and try to figure out different footprints. Then head outside to look for other signs of animal activity around Tyler.

February 11 – Winter is for Snow! - What is snow and what makes it so wonderful? Whether we have some on the ground or not, we’ll celebrate the white stuff with the book Winter is for Snow!

February 25 – In the Snow- Winter is a great time to look for signs of wildlife. We’ll play a guessing game with the book In the Snow: Who’s Been Here? Then head outside to look for signs of animal activity.

Garden Sprouts (Ages 4-5)

Garden Sprouts

Tuesdays, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

The Garden Sprouts programs are designed to introduce preschoolers and their favorite adult to the world of plants and gardens. Programs include a story, a craft and an outdoor walk to complement hands-on fun with plants.

February 17 – Kitchen Gardening - Don’t throw that pit away! We will learn about growing house plants from carrot tops, avocado pits, orange and apple seeds and even potato eyes. We will also make a plant buddy to take home.

Tiny Trackers (Ages 4-5)

Tiny Trackers

Thursdays, 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.

Tiny Trackers programs are designed for preschoolers and their favorite adult. Each program includes a lesson, an outdoor walk and a craft to take home.Pre-registration required; $10 members, $15 non-members (Fee is for the child only)

February 12 – For the Love of Birds - We’ll make special valentines for our bird friends and learn what makes them so special.

Family Programs

Grab the kids for a fun trip to Tyler! Interactive programs let you learn, create or explore nature and plants together. To ensure quality programs, age limits are for active participants; younger siblings are welcome to attend. Fee is for each participating child and each adult; kids 3 and under are free.

Full payment must accompany each registration. Places cannot be held without full payment.Classes are filled on a first come-first serve basis. Please call for availability prior to registration.

Refund Policy:

A $3 administrative fee will be charged for each program cancellation that you initiate

A full refund, less the administrative fee, will be given with a minimum notice of two weeks

A 50% refund will be given with a minimum notice of one week

NO REFUNDS will be given with less than one week’s notice

A full refund will be given if the Arboretum must cancel or reschedule a program due to inadequate enrollment, instructor illness, or inclement weather. We will make every reasonable attempt to notify you if a program is canceled.